Recovering PS4/PS5 Games from a Broken External Storage Device

Recovering games from a broken external storage device is a challenging but not impossible task. If your cat knocked your PS4/PS5’s external drive off the TV stand, here are some steps you can take to attempt a recovery.

Assess the Damage

Before you start the recovery process, it’s important to evaluate the damage to your external hard drive. Physical damage, such as cracks or dents, or unusual noises like clicking, can indicate internal damage that may require professional assistance.

Try Different Connections

Sometimes, a simple change can make all the difference. Change USB Ports: Try connecting the external drive to a different USB port on your PS4/PS5 or another console or computer. Use a Different Cable: If possible, use a different USB cable to connect the drive.

Connect to a Computer

If your computer recognizes the drive, you may be able to access your files or perform disk repair.

For Windows users:

Use Disk Management to manage the drive. Open Command Prompt and run chkdsk to check for and fix file system errors.

For Mac users:

Use Disk Utility to repair the disk.

Consider Data Recovery Software

If the drive is detected by your computer but you can't access the files, consider using data recovery software. Some popular options include: Recuva for Windows - A free utility that can recover deleted files. EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard - Available for Windows and Mac, it offers advanced features for data recovery. Disk Drill for Windows and Mac - Known for its user-friendly interface and robust recovery tools.

Professional Data Recovery

If the data is critical and you are unable to recover it yourself, consider contacting a professional data recovery service. They can attempt to recover data from physically damaged drives, but this can be expensive.

Backup in the Future

Once you successfully recover your data, take steps to prevent future data loss. Consider regularly backing up your games and data to cloud storage, such as PlayStation Plus, or using multiple external drives.

Note

If your games were stored on the external drive and you are unable to recover them, you will likely need to reinstall them from the PlayStation Store or from physical copies if you have them. Always handle external storage devices carefully to prevent potential damage. If you have any specific questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!

Conclusion

While the recovery process may seem daunting, with careful assessment and appropriate actions, you can often rescue your precious data. Remember to handle your equipment with care to prevent such incidents in the future.